Manufacturing
Hello! I’m Aaron Walz, and I’m the Fabrication Manager for the L.E. Smith Company. It’s my goal, and that of the fabrication team to provide you with the highest quality, and the fastest turnaround in the industry. I’ve received a lot of questions in the past, and I’ve listed some of the most common ones below, along with our factory-recommended solutions to each.
If you have a question that is not here, please use the form below to send me your questions directly. I promise to get back to you within one business day, so that you can get back to your project and complete it on time. Thank you for using L.E. Smith!
Can I cut my top with a circular saw?
Yes, you can, but are sure to use a blade with at least 32 teeth or more, and be sure the blade is cutting into the laminate from the top. You never want the blade’s teeth to come up from the bottom, because this will cause the laminate to chip.
Can an end cap be replaced if chipped?
Yes, most caps are applied with a hot melt glue system. By carefully using a heat gun, you can loosen the glue and remove the damaged cap. You can then take a chisel (we recommend one at least 1” wide) and scrape any of the excess glue off while it’s still warm. You can always use your heat gun to heat the glue and finish scraping. To get a replacement cap that is pre-glued and pre-fit, contact L.E. Smith.
Can a chip or a dent be filled?
The L.E. Smith Company carries a product called Seamfil that closely matches your current top. While this product cannot eliminate the chip or dent, it can greatly improve the appearance and function of a damaged top. Contact L.E. Smith to purchase Seamfil.
Can a Miter seam be disassembled?
Yes, in most cases, you can take the miter apart. The following instructions will guide you through the process, but be prepared that parts of the particle board may break apart as you perform the task.
- With the countertop laminate side down, you must first remove the wooden miter plate on the bottom side of the countertop. We recommend a 1” chisel and a hammer to pry off the plate.
- Next, using a 7/16” wrench, remove the miter bolts.
- If the top has a backsplash attached with screws, remove the screws.
- Turn the top so that the laminate side is up, and place the larger of the two legs on a solid bench.
- Now grab the smaller leg, and with even pressure, slowly push down on it so it starts to separate.
- You can now carefully poor a small amount of lacquer thinner into the seam to complete disassembly.